Brews & Business

What does it take to keep going when life throws everything at you? In this episode of Brews & Business, we sit down with Melissa Vanderipe, founder of Salt Earth Massage & Dry Salt Therapy, to talk about entrepreneurship, overcoming adversity, faith, and the power of human connection.

From opening her Tulsa wellness studio in the middle of a pandemic to facing unexpected business setbacks, significant debt, and personal challenges, Melissa shares how she continued rebuilding and stayed committed to her vision.

Today, Salt Earth is more than a wellness studio. It's a place where personalized care, meaningful connections, and a strong team culture come together.

Looking for great coffee to fuel your next meeting, workday, or conversation? 
Check out gregoroncoffeeroasters.com and support the businesses that support our community.

Tune in for an honest conversation about resilience, finding purpose through difficult seasons, and refusing to let life's circumstances write your ending. 

You can watch the full episode through this link: 
Youtube: https://youtu.be/Vgbc9EGY4fA

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From nursing to owning and operating a growing HVAC and plumbing company, Jayme Dampf’s journey is anything but ordinary. ☕️

As VP & Owner of American Home Pros, Jayme helps lead a family- and veteran-owned business serving Tulsa and the greater Green Country area. She joined her husband Cody in the business in 2022 and has grown from Office Manager to helping oversee scheduling, installations, and the day-to-day operations that keep the company moving.

In this episode of Brews & Business, Jayme shares her journey, the realities of running a family business, and what it takes to grow alongside your community.

☕️ Grab your coffee, tune in, and hear Jayme’s story. And a special thank-you to Gregorón Coffee for keeping the conversation brewing! #BrewsAndBusiness #AmericanHomePros #TulsaBusiness



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In this episode, we sit down with Suzanne Porske, President and Owner of Phoenix Financial Group, LLC, to talk about money, debt, budgeting, and what it really takes to rebuild financially.

Suzanne’s story is personal. After leaving her career to become a full-time mom, she and her family found themselves overwhelmed by debt. Then, she became a victim of identity theft, adding another challenge to an already difficult situation. 

Instead of letting that experience define her, Suzanne rebuilt and turned what she learned into a mission to help other families achieve financial stability. 

As the author of Achieve Financial Success, she shares practical financial guidance alongside a faith-driven approach to budgeting and paying off debt.We talk about the realities of financial setbacks, lessons learned from Suzanne’s own journey, and how small, intentional decisions can create a stronger financial future

If you're working toward getting out of debt, improving your budget, or simply becoming more intentional with your money, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

🎙️ Listen to the full episode and hear Suzanne's story: https://youtu.be/NV0lTkWWhFM


And a big thank you to Gregoron Coffee for sponsoring this episode!
☕ Your support helps make these conversations possible.

Use code Brews for 10% off at gregoroncoffee.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

What happens when your business is hit by a cyberattack after hours?
 In this episode, Cody Rojas, founder & CEO of T-Town Tech, breaks down the cybersecurity risks every business owner should understand—from human error and phishing to ransomware and the importance of being prepared before something goes wrong.
 Cody shares why cybersecurity shouldn’t be an afterthought: the best time to secure your business is when you start it. The second best time is now.
 🎙️ Watch the full episode and learn how to better protect your business.
https://youtu.be/zWWsu53soUg


👉 Know a business owner who needs to hear this? Share this episode with them!
 ☕ Big thank-you to Gregoron Coffee, our podcast sponsor! Looking for great coffee to fuel your next meeting, workday, or conversation?
 Check out https://www.gregoroncoffeeroasters.com/ and support the businesses that support our community.
 #Tulsabusiness #Cybersecurity #BusinessOwners #TTownTech #GregoronCoffee #Podcast


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

What happens when a Marine veteran decides that helping other veterans shouldn’t require navigating a mountain of red tape?

In this episode, Braedon sits down with Sean Lord, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and co-founder & President of Heroes Hope, a Tulsa-based nonprofit on a mission to end veteran homelessness across Oklahoma.

Sean took the mindset he developed in the Marine Corps and applied it to a problem that is deeply personal: veteran homelessness. Heroes Hope operates on a simple idea if someone can verify they’re a veteran and needs a safe place to stay, they shouldn’t have to wait weeks or months for help. The organization gets them housed immediately, then works alongside them on employment, transportation, medical and emotional care, and reconnecting with family.
And the results are growing fast.

Heroes Hope housed 30 veterans in 2024 and was already on pace to more than double that impact in 2025. Sean shares what it takes to scale an organization this quickly without losing the speed, trust, and human connection that made the model successful in the first place.
We also talk about the realities of veteran homelessness, the misconceptions civilians often have about the issue, Heroes Hope’s growing partnership with Soldier’s Wish, and what’s next as the organization looks toward expanding into Oklahoma City.

This isn’t just a conversation about running a nonprofit.It’s about service, leadership, sacrifice, and what happens when you refuse to accept that a broken system has to stay broken.

☕ This episode is proudly sponsored by Gregoron Coffee. Thank you to Gregoron Coffee for supporting the podcast and helping us bring conversations like this to a wider audience.

🎙️ Listen to the full episode and hear Sean’s story.

Here is a timeline of the podcast episode:

• 00:09 – 01:09: Introduction to the podcast, coffee sponsor mention, guest introduction (Sean Lord), and a whiskey toast.
  
  
• 01:10 – 03:29: Sean's background in the U.S. Marine Corps, his transition to pastoral ministry, and the growth that led him to work full-time at Heroes Hope.
  
  
• 03:30 – 07:37: Discussion of the transition process for unhoused veterans entering Heroes Hope homes and how the program functions under federal unhoused status guidelines.
  
  
• 07:38 – 10:48: Common misconceptions about homelessness and the personal experiences that changed the host's and Sean's perspectives.
  
  
• 10:49 – 13:53: The underlying mental and physical wounds that often lead to self-medication, a story about a veteran named Bob, and the initial spark that created Heroes Hope.
  
  
• 13:54 – 15:26: The role of Sean's wife as a co-founder and her support in handling crisis calls at any hour.
  
  
• 15:27 – 17:10: Explanation of the organization's "no red tape" approach to removing barriers for veterans in need.
  
  
• 17:11 – 22:01: Leadership principles, adapting to multiple roles, and a book recommendation (Turn the Ship Around) regarding team development.
  
  
• 22:02 – 27:31: The growth of the organization from housing 30 veterans to 70 halfway through the year, the logistical shifts in using rental homes, and tracking down a veteran living in a tent in the woods.
  
  
• 27:32 – 30:13: Detailed breakdown of the relief vs. restoration framework for nonprofits and the soft merger/partnership between Heroes Hope and Soldiers Wish.
  
  
• 30:14 – 35:12: Future plans for Heroes Hope, including replicating the model in other cities, establishing a veteran-specific shelter, and managing a new 59-unit apartment complex developer partnership.
  
  
• 35:13 – 39:13: How individuals, small groups, and churches can volunteer or support the self-funded organization financially.
  
  
• 39:14 – 41:02: The current scope of unhoused veterans in Oklahoma (over 500) and the shared humanity and personal goals of the veterans in the program.
  
  
• 41:03 – 44:22: Discussion on balancing swift activation with strategic planning and hearing feedback from board members to make fiscally responsible shifts.
  
  
• 44:23 – 46:45: The value of leadership feedback, an assessment of "luck vs. smarts," and the role of pure tenacity in building the organization.
  
  
• 46:46 – 51:17: A raw conversation prompt card about making the world a better place, keeping goals small during tough times (e.g., Marine Corps boot camp), and setting short-term milestones.
  
  
• 51:18 – 57:04: Financial planning habits, leveraging careers as a calling, using media exposure to connect donors, and the collective power of community.
  
  
• 57:05 – 57:40: Final wrap-up thoughts and contact information for anyone looking to get involved or help a veteran.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

In this episode of Brews and Business, host Braedon Kruse reunites with Dr. John Meisner to discuss the evolving intersection of automation, business scaling, and the irreplaceable human element. Over sushi and sake, the two long-time friends dive deep into how AI is reshaping administrative workflows and employee productivity. They explore the "60% productivity rule," the challenges of finding staff with true "skin in the game," and why high-level patient care and marketing still require a personal touch that robots simply cannot replicate. Whether you are a solo entrepreneur or managing a scaling practice, this conversation offers raw insights into the "loneliness at the top" and the strategic pivots needed to build a business that eventually grants you true freedom.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

Cheers to 100 Episodes! 🍻
 In this monumental 100th milestone episode of the Brews & Business podcast, host Braedon welcomes back former co-host and recurring favorite, Abel, for a raw, unfiltered look at their personal and professional growth over the years. Reaching 100 episodes isn’t just about the content it’s about the grit, the pivots, and the ultimate ROI of showing up.
 Pull up a chair as they dive into conversation cards from the Diary of a CEO deck and break down the cold, hard truths of long-term entrepreneurship, leadership, and life.
 The Power of Consistency: What does it really take to hit the big milestones (100 episodes, 10 years in business, 10 years of marriage)? Hint: It’s about showing up when you least feel like it.
 Calculated Risks vs. Catastrophe: How entrepreneurs balance the thrill of diving into low-risk scenarios against the heavy preparation required for high-stakes business moves.
 Authenticity & Identity: Managing decision fatigue, wearing the multiple hats of a father, husband, and CEO, and learning to finally trust your own intuition.
 The Reality of Being "Unemployable": How years of solo hardships and running the show change your perspective, making a return to traditional corporate structures nearly impossible.
 Accountability in Leadership: Abel breaks down his team management philosophy why open communication and calling out broken systems mean a team will sink or swim together.
 Parenting and Raising Sons: A candid look at the pride and challenges of guiding boys through transitional ages, and the reward of seeing them appreciate those tough life lessons later on.
 💡 "Brewed Wisdom" Rapid-Fire Segment
 Braedon revisits some of the greatest takeaways from past guests, including:
 Why you must know your financial numbers so no one takes advantage of you.
The ROI of setting strict client boundaries (even if it costs you short-term business).
Understanding that market willingness dictates your true value.
Why business, like good food, is ultimately about bringing diverse people together.
The ultimate debate: Is it better to be lucky or smart?
 📈 The True ROI of a Passion Project
 Starting out, it's easy to obsess over the monetary return on investment. 100 episodes later, Braden and Abel reflect on how the real value of a passion project lies in the incalculable returns: the sharp skills obtained, the knowledge acquired, and the lifelong friendships forged along the way.


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In this episode, we sit down with Dana Harris to discuss her multifaceted career journey—from interning with the New York Mets and producing sports in Tulsa to a two-decade career in banking. Now with the American Cancer Society, Dana is spearheading the 20th anniversary of the Tulsa Cattle Barons Ball, the largest ACS fundraiser in Oklahoma. She shares her "workhorse" mentality, her philosophy on living boldly, and how her commitment to her family during the pandemic led her to a meaningful new chapter in the nonprofit sector.
 Background & Career Journey

• Early Roots: Originally from Tulsa and a resident of Sapulpa, Dana attended Oklahoma State University.
• Sports Broadcasting: She gained early experience interning for the OSU sports office and the New York Mets in Queens.
• Media Production: After returning to Tulsa, she worked at a local TV station producing sports coverage for the Tulsa Talons and the Drillers.
• Banking Career: Dana spent approximately 21 years in the banking industry, including 17.5 years at Western Sun Credit Union starting in 2002, followed by four years at Yorktown Bank.
• Career Pivot: During the COVID-19 pandemic, she left banking to prioritize being present for her children’s learning and needs.

 The American Cancer Society & Tulsa Cattle Barons Ball

• The Mission: Dana has been with the ACS for nearly five years, motivated in part by her family's personal experiences with cancer.
• Event Growth: As the planner for the Tulsa Cattle Barons Ball, she successfully moved the event to 181 Ranch in Bixby, where it sold 500 tickets.
• A Historic Venue: To accommodate growth, the event moved to the Ranger Arena at Expo Square; Dana was the first person to host an event at this venue.
• 20th Anniversary Milestone: This year’s event celebrates two decades and aims to host 700 attendees with a fundraising goal of $650,000.
• Efficiency & Impact: The ACS maintains a low overhead (12% to 15%) so that 80% or more of funds go directly to the cause.
• Local Support: While funds support national research, a specific "paddle raise" keeps money in Oklahoma to provide patients with gas cards, Uber rides, and lodging for treatments.
• Opportunity: Dana is currently seeking a title sponsor for this year’s milestone event.

 Marketing & Life Philosophy

• Marketing Strategy: Dana advocates for "outside the box" thinking and believes marketing is about identifying a need and creating a solution.
• The "Workhorse" Brand: She describes her personal brand as a "workhorse," a tireless work ethic she learned from her father.
• Living Boldly: Dana defines "living boldly" as pushing yourself to be your best and serving as a living example of your values.
• Family Influence: Her children have helped her become more empathetic and collaborative; she strives to be present for all their school and sporting events.
• Advice for Newcomers: For those new to Tulsa, Dana recommends getting involved with a local nonprofit or school to build community connections.

 

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.

We are just two episodes away from the big 100! Before we get to the celebration, we take a deep dive into two very different types of numbers in this gripping and eye-opening episode.

First, the host kicks things off with his precise, "numbers-driven" method for brewing the perfect espresso to create a perfect cortado. Our guest, Jamie Miller, also shares her unique relationship with numbers—hating math, but loving measurement—tracing how this appreciation evolved through cosmetology school and into her current professional life.

Then, the tone shifts as Jamie Miller, of The Demand Project, shares her incredible personal journey and her mission to fight child trafficking. Jamie reveals her background, the chilling moment she first discovered child trafficking, how she overcame a spiritual encounter that tried to stop her exploration, and how a remarkably successful fundraiser in July 2020 led her to The Demand Project just weeks before they opened the nation’s largest safe house for child trafficking survivors.
We discuss the pillars of The Demand Project—Prevention, Education, and Restoration—and the staggering financial reality of caring for these survivors. Finally, this episode confront shocking statistics surrounding trafficking, the age of pornography exposure, the alarming intersection between traffickers and the DHS foster care system, and the devastating lack of resources for survivors nationwide.

This is a must-listen episode about business mindset, the power of grassroots funding, and the urgent reality of child trafficking in America.

KEY TAKEAWAYS 

• Knowing measurements provides satisfaction and a way to make adjustments.
• The Demand Project safe house is the largest in the nation with 25 beds. Most only have eight
• There are only 661 beds total in the entire country for child trafficking survivors. 26 states have zero beds.
• 70% of trafficked children are in the DHS foster care system.
• The annual cost to care for one child at the safe house is $75,000.
• One child can generate $375,000 per year for a trafficker.
• The average age for a female trafficking victim is 12 years old.
• The average age of pornography exposure has dropped two years in the last five years, sitting at seven years old in 2025.
• 76% of professing Christian men view pornography at least once a week.

Some resources you might get interested:

1. The Demand Project: https://thedemandproject.org/
2. ThE Bark Phone for Kids: https://www.bark.us/learn/the-bark-phone-for-kids-ps/?utm_source=aw&utm_medium=paid-search&utm_campaign=kids-phone-branded-google&utm_content=147666934708&utm_term=kwd-918710695802&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17664435801&gclid=Cj0KCQiAy6vMBhDCARIsAK8rOgnsy8ptNIheyjEIm5iR5SVa4Y4UA6Gte_OOn5AVi4w1RIJqxESOjCEaAoUeEALw_wcB

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In this episode of Brews and Business, the hosts reflect on what the podcast has meant to them—both personally and professionally and dive into the real, unfiltered realities of business ownership.
 They talk about missing the rhythm of consistent conversations with like-minded entrepreneurs, how podcasting sharpened their communication and interviewing skills, and why being on camera helped them gain confidence when connecting with high-level professionals. The conversation also explores the mindset shift that comes with business ownership, setting boundaries with clients, and why many entrepreneurs feel “officially unemployable.”
 The episode wraps with an honest discussion about economic uncertainty, industry stagnation, and how rapid change especially after the COVID has impacted service-based businesses. From four-day work weeks to weathering slowdowns, this episode is about finding rhythm, protecting mental health, and staying grounded when the business world feels unpredictable.
  Key Notes / Takeaways

• Podcasting created consistency, rhythm, and meaningful conversations outside the daily grind
• Hosting a podcast improves communication, curiosity, interviewing, and sales skills
• Being on camera builds confidence and reduces intimidation when networking
• High-level professionals are “just people too,” making connection easier
• Business ownership creates a fundamentally different mindset than employment
• Many owners feel tempted to clock in, clock out, and let problems be “not my problem”
• Financial freedom allows flexibility and future career shifts
• Setting boundaries is essential—even if it costs clients
• A four-day work week (or closed Fridays) significantly improves mental health
• Digital businesses often face unrealistic 24/7 client expectations
• Not every fire needs to be put out immediately—some resolve themselves
• Economic stagnation is harder than clear downturns because it stalls decision-making
• Marketing and landscaping are often cut first during tight economic times
• COVID created a temporary boom in home-based industries, followed by a correction
• Too much change too fast prevents businesses from finding a new rhythm

Episode Chapters00:00 – Introduction & Reflecting on the Podcast
Why the rhythm of consistent conversations was missed

04:30 – What Podcasting Teaches You
Communication, curiosity, interviewing, and confidence growth

10:15 – Networking Without Intimidation
Realizing industry leaders are just people

15:40 – “Officially Unemployable” Mindset
Why business owners think differently than employees

21:10 – The Allure of Clocking In and Out
Why owners sometimes want fewer responsibilities

26:30 – Financial Freedom & Career Flexibility
Rethinking lifelong careers and future business ideas

33:45 – Setting Boundaries with Clients
Why saying no matters more than saying yes

39:20 – The Four-Day Work Week Experiment
Mental health, team morale, and closing on Fridays

46:10 – Losing Clients by Creating Boundaries
Why it’s sometimes necessary—and worth it

52:30 – Fires That Can Wait
Letting problems resolve themselves

57:40 – Business Stagnation & Economic Uncertainty
Why not knowing is worse than knowing things are bad

1:04:15 – Industries Hit First in Tough Times
Marketing, landscaping, and service-based businesses

1:10:00 – Post-COVID Business Reality
From boom to crunch and finding a new normal

1:15:30 – Too Much Change, Too Fast
Why businesses need time to reset and find rhythm


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/brews-business--5630487/support.